Kancamagus Highway
Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire, USA
This 56km scenic drive takes just under an hour to complete from start to finish. However, there are some amazing places to stop along the way as well as a few detours worth exploring too. When exploring the USA along this Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire route in the comfort of a motorhome, campervan or RV, you can also make the most of the campgrounds nearby which will help keep travel costs down and allow you to enjoy an extended getaway.
Conway to Champney Falls
Your journey begins in Conway. Here, you can enjoy the various historic buildings and do some shopping before you hit the road. Make sure that you fill your vehicle’s tank before you begin your drive.
If you would like some additional information on various hikes, walks and biking trails in the area, make sure that you stop at the Saco Ranger District. In winter, other activities include snow-shoeing, skiing and snowmobiling. You might even be fortunate enough to encounter some local wildlife such as deer, moose, fox, black bear and several of the known 200 local species of birds.
The trail will take you along the Swift River and through the Saco River Valley as you travel towards the Albany Covered Bridge. There is a parking area and walking path which will allow for some fantastic photo opportunities. If you wish, you can explore the nearby Boulder Loop Trail which showcases glacial evidence dating back to the last Ice Age.
The Champney Falls Trail is another easy round trip hike through some lush forest. It will take you past some amazing water flows if you visit in the spring. Skilled climbers can enjoy the challenge of scaling the frozen icy chutes.
There are a number of swimming holes in the area and, of them all, the Lower Falls Swimming Hole, is one of the preferred spots due to its lush green surroundings and stunning cascade.
Rocky Gorge to Kancamagus Pass and Lincoln
The Rocky Gorge Scenic Area was formed by glaciers and is also worth exploring before you continue on to Bear Notch Road which connects the highway with the White Mountain Trail.
Feel free to enjoy a little detour to Bartlett and, if you enjoy cross-country skiing, this will be a must on your itinerary! Bartlett is also home to a number of excellent mountain biking trails and, if you prefer something a bit more relaxing, you can simply stroll around and enjoy the fresh air.
Your next main stop along the way will be at the Russell-Colbath House. This house was built back in 1832. It is believed that, back in 1891, Mr Colbath left home and told his wife that he would be returning soon. His wife hung a lantern outside their home every night in order to help guide her husband home. After 39 years, he did return home. Sadly, his wife had passed away just 3 years prior. This house is filled with plenty of furnishings dating back to this time and you can also learn a great deal about the Passaconaway Valley while you are here.
Just a few miles to go and you will reach Sabbaday Falls. These are some of the most frequented falls in the state and the Sabbaday Brook Trail is also worth exploring. Swimming is not permitted here but you may enjoy some fishing provided you have the appropriate license. The road then takes you to Kancamagus Pass where you can stop to enjoy the amazing views from above.
Other great stops on your way to your final stop in Lincoln include the Upper Lady’s Bath Swimming Hole, the Lincoln Woods Trail and the White Mountain Visitor Center. Enjoy the interpretive displays at the visitor center before planning a stop at the Sugar Hill Scenic Overlook and stop to enjoy a light meal or refreshment at the C.L. Graham Wangan Ground Picnic Area. From this picnic spot, you will have the best view of the Presidential Range before concluding your Kancamagus Highway scenic journey in Lincoln and possibly continuing to explore the popular White Mountain Trail if you have time to spare.